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Billionaire Businessman, Femi Otedola’s Philosophical Wit

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It is just 26 days into the New Year.

Yet, recognition and honour have started coming the way of billionaire businessman and Chairman of Geregu Power Plc, Femi Otedola.

Last Monday, the  Executive Chairman, Geregu Powe Plc, was honoured with the Philanthropist of the Decade Award at an event to commemorate the 25th anniversary of ThisDay Newspapers at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

At the well attend event, Otedola, while receiving the award, had used the opportunity to clear the air about his other passion, philanthropy and recent humongous donation of N5bn to the Save The Children Foundation in November 2019 in Abuja.

Of course, he was not unaware of the reactions that trailed the donation, including the reported disguised belief expressed in some quarters.

In fact, Otedola, also an art aficionado, regaled the distinguished audience with details of how his children had been shocked when he made his intention known hours to the donation of the money to the Foundation.

Goaded by his love for his “innocent children,” he disclosed that he immediately deployed his philosophical wit, and also shared his deep understanding of what makes life meaningful and living worthwhile with them, in his effort to make them sea reason with them.

According to him, he explained to his visibly shocked children that they would never go broke or hungry because he had tried as humanly possible to give them the greatest weapon against poverty: education.

By the time he ended his speech on the occasion, no one in the audience agreed less with him that it was a well thought-out donation, one that gave him indescribable joy and great fulfillment.

It will be recalled that, apart from the wondrous donation of N5bn, Otedola in the past, had dazzled at the Augustine University’s Fundraising and Founders’ Day event held at the Muson Centre, Onikan,  Lagos in 2018.

Then, he had pledged to donate a well-equipped Faculty of Engineering building to the institution, which would be worth over N 500m.

The shrewd businessman, a few months later, fulfilled his promise, when he  laid the foundation of the building in the presence of the  Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, His Grace Most Reverend Dr.  Alfred Adewale Martins and his mother, Lady Doja Otedola, among other notable personalities.

Last  year alone, he  invested millions of Naira into charity, apart from other donations made to former Green Eagles player, Christian Chukwu, singer Majek Fashek and Nollywood actor, Sadiq Daba, among many others.

Also in 2019, he was named  the biggest individual donor to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF). Subsequently, he and some other donors were celebrated at an event tagged “Transformational Security” and the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-olu commended him for consistently intervening to improve the society.

Without a doubt, his act of generosity continues to shoot for the sky; he loves giving back to his society without blinking an eyelid.

However, he loathes people singing his praise over such acts of humaneness.  He is not your kind of billionaire who calls for publicity over little donation.

On his humanitarian gestures, he has been quoted as saying that “God has been so kind to me in life.

“I feel highly privileged.

“The only way I can show my gratitude to Him is to use my resources to support those who are underprivileged.

“This I intend to do for the rest of my life.

“In a world full of conflicts, diseases, calamities and inequality we all need to show the milk of human kindness, to reach out and comfort the sick and give a helping hand to the weak.

 “A lot of people think when they die, they take their money with them, we’ll see.

 “In my journey of life, I have taken the risk, I’ve done the chase, I’ve enjoyed the thrill and I have achieved success and recognition. What next? You give it back!”

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FORMAL NOTICE: FALSE, DEFAMATORY, AND MALICIOUS PUBLICATION

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The attention of UBA Group has been drawn to a false, defamatory, and malicious publication currently circulating on social media platforms, falsely alleging that the Group Chairman, Mr. Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, has divorced his wife.

These statements and all similar content are entirely fabricated, reckless, and without basis. The claims are a deliberate falsehood designed to mislead the public and cause reputational harm.

The matter has been referred to the relevant law enforcement authorities, who have commenced action. We confirm that three individuals directly connected to the creation and dissemination of these malicious falsehoods have been arrested, namely:

 

  1. Mr. Kingsley Akunemeihe (@Directorkem)

 

  1. Mr. Chigozie Success Ihebom

 

  1. Mr. John Surpruchi Nwanorue (@problemchimky)

Investigations are ongoing and are expected to lead to further arrests and prosecutions of all persons involved in originating, amplifying, or sustaining this defamatory campaign.

This serves as a formal notice to all individuals, platforms, and entities involved in the publication, reposting, or continued dissemination of this content to immediately cease and desist.

All such parties are hereby required to:

 

  • Remove the offending publication from all platforms immediately

 

  • Refrain from any further publication or amplification of similar false content

 

  • Preserve all records, including digital footprints, communications, and metadata relating to the creation and dissemination of the publication, pending further legal action

According to a statement signed by Alero Ladipo  Group Head, Brand, Marketing & Corporate Communication

United Bank for Africa, failure to comply will result in the initiation of legal proceedings, including claims for defamation, injunctive relief, damages, and any other remedies available under applicable law.

The UBA Group is resolute in protecting the reputation, privacy, and integrity of our brand, that of Mr. Elumelu and will pursue all necessary legal avenues — civil and criminal — to ensure that all responsible parties are identified and held accountable.

 

 

 


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Wale Tinubu Celebrates Folawiyo at 66

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The Group Chief Executive of  Oando Group Jubril Adewale Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to billionaire businessman and oil tycoon Tunde Folawiyo on the occasion of his 66th birthday, describing him as a distinguished figure whose influence continues to resonate across Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.

In a warm and reflective message, Tinubu celebrated Folawiyo not only as a respected elder but as a man whose enduring legacy cuts across business, culture, sports, and the arts. His words captured the deep admiration Folawiyo commands within elite circles and beyond.

“Happy birthday to a great Egbon, Tunde Folawiyo,” Tinubu wrote. “Your impact has touched many corners of our national story—from business to culture, sport, and the arts. As you mark another year, I celebrate all you have accomplished, and the grace and consistency with which you have done it.”

The Oando boss further offered prayers for continued strength and fulfilment, expressing hope that the years ahead would bring even greater accomplishments and sustained good health for the celebrated industrialist.

Folawiyo, a scion of one of Nigeria’s most prominent business families, has long maintained a commanding presence in the corporate world, while also nurturing interests that extend into philanthropy and the preservation of cultural heritage. His measured approach to leadership and quiet philanthropy have earned him widespread respect as a man of substance and refinement.

As he marks this significant milestone, tributes have continued to pour in from across the country’s business and social circles, affirming his status as one of Nigeria’s most influential and admired figures.


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Love, Pride and Prestige: Wale Tinubu Celebrates Wife’s Rise Among Africa’s Most Influential Women

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In the glittering world of high society and corporate influence, moments of genuine pride and admiration rarely go unnoticed. Such was the case when oil magnate and business leader Jubril Adewale Tinubu stepped into the spotlight to celebrate a milestone achievement by his wife, Bola Tinubu who was recently honoured at the prestigious ARISE 100 Women of Impact in Africa Awards.

The award ceremony, organised by the media powerhouse ARISE News, brought together some of Africa’s most accomplished and influential women—leaders whose contributions have left a remarkable imprint across business, governance, philanthropy, and social development. Among this distinguished league stood Mrs. Tinubu, whose recognition reflects years of quiet excellence, commitment, and purposeful impact.

For the energy tycoon, the moment was deeply personal. Known across the continent as the driving force behind the energy giant Oando Plc, the businessman is often celebrated for his boardroom brilliance and strategic leadership. Yet, beyond the corporate boardrooms and global energy deals, he was simply a proud husband applauding the achievements of the woman who stands beside him.

Taking to social media shortly after the ceremony, Tinubu shared a touching tribute that resonated with many who admire the couple. His message was simple but heartfelt, capturing the essence of admiration and partnership. Referring to the moment as a “proud husband moment,” he congratulated his wife on the prestigious honour and praised the significance of the recognition.

The ARISE Women of Impact Awards have increasingly become one of the continent’s most respected platforms for celebrating female excellence. The initiative highlights women whose work continues to shape industries, inspire communities, and redefine leadership across Africa. For the woman , being counted among this elite group places her firmly within a circle of changemakers whose influence transcends titles and accolades.

Observers at the event noted that her recognition was not merely ceremonial but well deserved. Over the years, she has cultivated a reputation for grace, professionalism, and dedication to meaningful causes—qualities that have earned her admiration within Nigeria’s social and professional circles.

For those who know the Tinubus, the public celebration was hardly surprising. The couple has long embodied a partnership built on mutual respect, shared ambition, and unwavering support for each other’s pursuits. While  Tinubu continues to command attention in the energy sector, his wife has quietly carved out her own path of distinction.

The quiet, steady influence of a woman who commands respect without seeking the spotlight  shone brightly on that memorable evening reminding many that true influence often speaks in the calmest of voices.

Beyond her professional accomplishments and social standing, the intelligent lawyer nine years ago,  translated her deep concern for child protection into action with the launch of the Cece Yara Foundation, an organisation dedicated to protecting children from abuse and giving young victims a safe platform to speak out against injustice.

Over the years, the foundation has become a powerful voice in the fight against child abuse in Nigeria, offering support, counselling and advocacy for vulnerable children. Through its initiatives, many young victims have found both protection and hope.

Through these initiatives, she  has continued to demonstrate that her influence goes far beyond society circles. Her commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of society has made her not only a respected figure in elite circles but also a beacon of hope for countless children and families across the country.

In a society where achievements are often measured in grand gestures and headlines, moments like this serve as a reminder that recognition carries deeper meaning when it is celebrated by those closest to us.

For the GCEO of Oando Group, the award was not just another accolade on the social calendar—it was a powerful reminder that behind every remarkable woman is a story of dedication, resilience, and a partner proud enough to celebrate her success before the world.

 


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